What are some interesting in the education space?Why are they interesting?

1. Outschool

What it does: Outschool is an online platform offering live, small-group classes for K-12 students across various subjects, taught by independent teachers and educators.

Why it’s interesting: Outschool provides a flexible, interest-based learning model that gives students agency to explore topics beyond the traditional curriculum, such as coding, art, space science, or even history through the lens of video games. It’s particularly appealing for homeschooling families and parents looking to supplement traditional schooling with interactive, niche courses.

2. Duolingo

What it does: Duolingo is a language-learning platform offering gamified lessons in various languages, making language acquisition fun and engaging for users of all ages.

Why it’s interesting: By using a mobile-first, game-based approach, Duolingo has made language learning accessible, affordable, and enjoyable, gaining a broad user base worldwide. Its adaptive learning technology personalizes lessons based on user progress, and the app leverages AI to predict areas where users may struggle, keeping engagement high.

3. Quizlet

What it does: Quizlet is an AI-powered learning tool that helps students study through flashcards, games, and quizzes, making it easy to memorize and test knowledge on any subject.

Why it’s interesting: Quizlet’s platform allows users to create their own flashcards or use those made by others, making it a highly customizable study tool. The company has added advanced learning tools like adaptive learning and interactive study games, and its use of machine learning to analyze study patterns has created new efficiencies in memorization and knowledge retention.

4. ClassDojo

What it does: ClassDojo is a communication platform connecting teachers, students, and parents to foster a positive school culture and improve classroom experiences.

Why it’s interesting: ClassDojo brings teachers, students, and parents together through a gamified classroom management system that rewards students for good behavior and allows parents to stay connected to their child’s learning. It’s impactful for creating transparency between schools and families and fostering a supportive learning environment.

5. MasterClass

What it does: MasterClass offers online courses taught by industry-leading experts and celebrities in fields like acting, writing, cooking, sports, and more.

Why it’s interesting: MasterClass appeals to a broad audience by allowing users to learn from world-class professionals and celebrities, transforming traditional online courses into a premium experience. Its model highlights the appeal of learning from figures who have excelled at the highest levels, creating a unique blend of entertainment and education.

6. Coursera

What it does: Coursera partners with universities and organizations to offer online courses, specializations, and degrees across numerous disciplines.

Why it’s interesting: Coursera stands out because it brings high-quality, accredited education to a global audience, making it possible to earn professional certificates or even degrees from top universities remotely. Its adaptability to student needs and focus on bridging skill gaps for the modern workforce has cemented its role in the remote learning landscape.

7. Kahoot!

What it does: Kahoot! is a game-based learning platform that allows teachers and students to create quizzes and play learning games in a fun, competitive way.

Why it’s interesting: Kahoot! transforms quizzes and assessments into engaging experiences by using a game-show format, which motivates students to learn through competition and collaboration. It's highly effective for enhancing engagement in classrooms or remote learning environments, and its popularity has spread worldwide, from K-12 to corporate training.

8. BYJU's

What it does: BYJU's is an Indian edtech company providing online tutoring and adaptive K-12 learning. It also prepares students for major exams and competitive entrance tests.

Why it’s interesting: Known for its adaptive and visually rich content, BYJU’s has leveraged video content, interactive lessons, and data analytics to personalize the learning journey. BYJU’s has expanded its reach internationally and invested in various other edtech companies, establishing itself as a global player in online education, particularly in emerging markets.

9. Lambda School (now BloomTech)

What it does: Lambda School offers income share agreements (ISAs) for students, enabling them to take online coding and tech courses with no upfront payment. They pay a percentage of their income once they land a job.

Why it’s interesting: By offering ISAs, BloomTech addresses affordability issues in education, making it possible for students to learn without incurring debt. This approach aligns the institution's success with the student’s, as repayment only begins after the student is employed, adding accountability for both parties.

10. GoGuardian

What it does: GoGuardian offers tools for monitoring and filtering content on student devices, enabling schools to promote a safe and focused learning environment in both physical and remote classrooms.

Why it’s interesting: GoGuardian has adapted to the challenges of digital learning by providing real-time monitoring, which is critical as schools implement one-to-one device programs. It offers insights into student engagement and helps address safety concerns by preventing access to harmful content.

Final Thoughts

These startups are reshaping education by making it more accessible, interactive, and relevant to today's learners. Through AI, gamification, adaptive learning, and innovative financial models, they’re addressing long-standing challenges in education such as accessibility, engagement, quality, and cost. The result is a more inclusive, engaging, and skill-oriented approach to education that better prepares individuals for the modern world.